DUBAI, May 6 (Bernama) -- Etihad Airways has been named Middle East's Leading Airline for the eighth consecutive year at the World Travel Awards Middle East, Emirates News Agency (WAM) reported.

The prestigious accolade was one of three awards won by Etihad Airways at a special gala ceremony here Monday night.

The airline was also named the Middle East's Leading Airline-First Class and the Middle East's Leading Cabin Crew.

The World Travel Awards was established in 1993 to celebrate excellence in travel and tourism, with industry professionals and travel consumers voting for the winners.

Described as the Oscars of the travel industry by the Wall Street Journal, winners are initially selected at six regional ceremonies, including the Middle East event, followed by a year-end global finale.

Meanwhile, the year also saw Etihad Airways achieve its third consecutive net profit, up 48 per cent to US$62 million (RM201.43 million), underpinned by record passenger numbers, freight volumes and revenues.

The World Travel Awards President '&' Founder, Graham E Cooke said that over the past decade the carrier has grown from a regional player into a global powerhouse and this achievement has again been recognised by the voters of World Travel Awards.

"The airline's strategy of organic growth and savvy partnerships, coupled with an unrivalled commitment to quality and service, has delivered record results and soaring passenger growth. The airline looks forward to another record year in 2014."

-- BERNAMA

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Etihad Airways Bags Middle East's Leading Airline Award